How to Multiply Using Vedic Math
Vedic math originated in India and has sixteen Sutras (aphorisms or word formulae). In this system, you can use simple patterns to multiply and mentally solve difficult math problems. Use the Sutra vertically and crosswise to solve multiplication problems.
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Instructions
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Special Method to Multiply Numbers Near Base 100
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1
Multiple numbers that are close to 100 with this method. For this example example, multiply 95 x 81.
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2
Subtract each number from 100. 100 - 95 = 5 and 100 - 81 = 19.
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3
Arrange the numbers from Step 1 in the following manner:
95 5
81 19 -
4
Subtract crosswise either (95 - 19) or (81 - 5) to get 76, which is the first part of the answer. Then multiply vertically 19 X 5 = 95, which is the second part of the answer. The final answer is 7695.
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5
Multiply numbers, which are just over 100, such as 105 X 103, by following Steps 2 through 4. For this example, you get:
105 5
103 3 -
6
Add crosswise either (105 + 3) or (103 + 5) to get 108. Then multiply vertically (5 x 3) to get 15. The final answer is 10815. Note that for numbers over 100, you add crosswise. For numbers just below 100 you have to subtract crosswise.
Method for Long Multiplication of Numbers
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7
Multiply this example: 24 X 41. Imagine that 41 is directly below 24:
24
41 -
8
Start from the bottom right and multiply 4 X 1 = 4.
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9
Multiply crosswise 1 X 2 = 2 and 4 X 4 = 16.
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10
Add 2+16 = 18 from Step 3. Put down 8 and carry 1 over.
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11
Multiply vertically 2 X 4 = 8 and add the carried over 1, so 8 + 1 = 9. The final answer is 984. You can use this method to solve long multiplications of any size. With practice, you'll be able to do these calculations mentally.
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1
Tips & Warnings
In Vedic math there are special cases which only apply under certain conditions, such as when numbers are near base 10, 100 or 1000 (see Resources below).
